Sand Riding Tips on an Adventure Bike
Sand Riding Tips on an Adventure Bike
“If you’re not dancing in the sand, you’re probably digging a hole.”
Riding in sand can feel like riding a shopping trolley full of bricks—until it clicks. Then suddenly, you're floating. Whether you're tackling beach tracks, inland dunes, or sandy station roads, sand is one of the trickiest terrains to master on an adventure bike.
Here’s what you need to know before you hit the soft stuff.
1. Let the Front Float
The golden rule of sand riding is: don't fight the bike. The front wheel will wander—it’s meant to. Your job is to relax your arms, keep a light grip on the bars, and let the bike find its own line. If you try to wrestle the front into place, you’ll tire quickly and likely dig in.
2. Get Your Weight Back
Shift your weight towards the rear—especially under acceleration. This lightens the front end and helps keep the wheel skimming the top of the sand rather than digging in. Think about moving your hips back and standing slightly taller to control the bike with your feet and legs.
3. Stay on the Throttle
Momentum is your best mate in sand. If you roll off the throttle, the front will dive and the bike will bog. Keep consistent power and be smooth—abrupt throttle or brake inputs can make things go pear-shaped quickly.
4. Stand Up. Always.
Sitting in sand is a recipe for ruts and fatigue. Standing allows the bike to move beneath you, and your legs become part of the suspension. It's more tiring at first, but much more effective and safer in the long run.
5. Lower Your Tyre Pressure
Drop your pressures to increase the tyre’s footprint. Around 18–22 psi is common for sand, but go with what you’re comfortable with and what your rim locks can handle. Just remember to air back up once you’re done.
6. Look Ahead, Not Down
Keep your eyes up. Your bike goes where you look, and if you’re staring at the front fender or the next sand pit, that’s where you’ll end up. Scan ahead and ride with purpose.
7. Brake with the Rear
Use your rear brake to control speed in sand. The front brake is less effective in loose conditions and can cause the front to dig in and wash out. Use gentle inputs and let the engine braking do some of the work too.
8. Practice, Then Practice More
You won’t master sand in a single ride. Find a soft, safe stretch and loop it. Play with throttle control, body positioning, and turning technique. The more seat time you get in sand, the better it gets.
Bonus Tip: Pack Light
Heavy bikes and deep sand are a punishing combo. Lighten your load where you can. If you’re running Nomad Moto panniers, make sure the heaviest gear stays central and low to help keep balance and control.
Final Word
Everyone struggles in sand at some point—it’s part of the journey. But with the right technique and a bit of patience, you’ll go from dreading it to loving it. And when that happens, you’ll be smiling through your helmet as you carve through the dunes, fully in the moment.
Wish you were here, but glad you’re not.
– Team Nomad Moto